R&D Engineer – Fluids & Thermodynamics

About Us:

Here at ThermalCyclones we are looking to completely disrupt and decarbonise the industrial heat space. We looking to scale our operation quickly with a mission to have a green impact on planet the scale of fusion or solar.

Industrial heat consumes 22% of the global energy and produces 20% of the world's CO2, more than aviation and shipping combined. Most of this heat is created by gas/oil/coal powered steam boilers. Steam is the key to many manufacturing industries and industrial processes, yet today's Industrial Heat Pumps cannot directly and easily replace steam boilers.

We’re developing a technology that replaces large industrial scale steam generators by spinning fluids fast, thus compressing them to transform heat, using heat pump-like technology. We are bringing together aerospace quality engineering and Formula One like R&D to push rotating structures to the limit to produce a technology that for the first time ever competes commercially with traditional steam generators, unlike electric boilers, or traditional heat pumps.

About the Role:

We are seeking a highly motivated and innovative R&D Engineer with a specialisation in fluid dynamics to join our growing research and development team. In this role, you will be responsible for the design, modelling, testing, and optimization of fluid systems and components. You will work on groundbreaking technologies that aim to improve energy efficiency, performance, and sustainability across a range of industrial applications.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and develop fluid systems, components, and prototypes for new products and technologies.
• Perform CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) simulations to analyse flow behaviour, heat transfer, and pressure drop and equation of states.
• Conduct experimental testing and validation of fluid systems in laboratory and field environments.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (mechanical, electrical, controls) to integrate fluid systems into larger product architectures.
• Research and evaluate new technologies, materials, and processes in fluid mechanics and thermal systems.
• Document and present research findings, technical reports, and design reviews to stakeholders.
• Support product development from concept through to production, ensuring performance, reliability, and compliance with industry standards.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical, Aeronautical Engineering, or a related field with a focus on fluid dynamics.
• 2-5 years of experience in an R&D or engineering role involving fluids, heat transfer, or thermodynamic systems (entry-level candidates with strong academic backgrounds should still apply, we have multiple levels of roles to fill).
• Proficient in CFD software (e.g. ANSYS Fluent, COMSOL) and CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Hands-on experience with laboratory testing, instrumentation, and data analysis.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work in a multidisciplinary team environment.

Additional Qualifications (we’d love to see):

• Experience with “wet” or multiphase fluids
• Knowledge of modelling/coding tools specifically Python (Matlab/Octave is close enough to convert)
• Patent or publication record in the field of fluid dynamics or thermal systems.
• Experience in energy systems, HVAC, steam systems, or rotating fluid machinery
• Experience with Modelica

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a team developing next-generation technologies that address global sustainability challenges and can have a massive impact.
• Collaborative and innovative work environment with career growth opportunities.
• Exposure to some of the more commercial activities of the business.
• Competitive compensation and benefits package – no, really, for the best talent we’ll outcompete most London corporate equivalent roles and pay, given experience and seniority of hire.

How to Join Us – what’s the process?

• Send your CV to us at: jobs@thermalcyclones.com – no need for cover letters
• 1st interview – remote/virtual – People & Purpose - 30 minutes
• 2nd interview – remote/virtual – Technical – 60 minutes
• 3rd interview – in-person – Technical – 60 mins

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: £40,000.00-£75,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Flexitime
• Transport links

Ability to commute/relocate:

• London NW1 8HR: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

Education:

• Bachelor's (required)

Work authorisation:

• United Kingdom (required)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in London NW1 8HR